Kansas Pork Association sponsors seven blood drives throughout the state

Central Plains Blood Services Region

Kansas Pork Association sponsors seven blood drives throughout the state

Two $25 gift cards to be given away at each location

(April 29, 2013) — For the second year, the Kansas Pork Association (KPA) is sponsoring several blood drives throughout Kansas with a goal of collecting 150 pints of blood. Because each pint could help save up to three lives, up to 450 patients could benefit.

Summer is a perfect time for cookouts, so at each blood drive, scheduled May 6 through Aug. 7, KPA members will help staff the refreshment area and offer free pulled pork sandwiches to donors. Presenting donors will also receive small stress relieving, pig-shaped squeeze toys, as well as have the chance to win a $25 gift card.

Also, presenting donors at four of the blood drives in May (May 23, 24, 28 and 29) can enter to win a $1,000 gift card. Promotional rules apply; visit redcrossblood.org for details.

Kansas Pork Association blood drives:

May 6 from 11:15 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at St. Rose Auditorium, 1412 Baker St., Great Bend

May 23 from noon to 6 p.m. at the Colby Community Building, 285 E. 5th St., Colby

May 24 from 7:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Colby Community Building, 285 E. 5th St., Colby

May 28 from noon to 6 p.m. at Pottorf Hall in CiCo Park, Manhattan

May 29 from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Pottorf Hall in CiCo Park, Manhattan

June 25 from 11:15 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. at the Civic Center, Independence

July 24 from noon to 6 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 800 W. Frontview, Dodge City

July 25 from 7:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 800 W. Frontview, Dodge City

The need for blood is constant and while blood donations tend to decrease in the summer months, these drives will help ensure blood products are readily available for patients.

How to donate blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.